Perched on the edge of the Columbia River and surrounded by the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, Revelstoke – or Revy to locals and fans – is a beautiful outdoor playground.
Over the years, Revy has become synonymous as a town that throws everything into its outdoor recreation activities – the likes of skiing, hiking, paddling, climbing and more, you can do it all here!
Home to around 7,000 year-round residents, Revy is nearly halfway between Vancouver and Calgary. While well-connected as a tourist destination, Revelstoke has maintained a rural feel that leaves guests charmed by the town’s sense of warmth and community.
READ MORE: Revy rocks: Revelstoke climbing community reaches new heights
For those who’ve visited and the many more who will experience their first winter holiday in Revelstoke, here are just a handful of experiences that’ll keep you and your family coming back for years to come.
1. Dog Sledding with Revelstoke Dog Sled Adventures – Embrace the thrill of mushing with the dogs or relax in the sled and the ride through Revelstoke’s stunning landscape. Allow Eric and his team to unveil the area in a way you haven’t seen before.
2. Fat Biking – Revelstoke takes biking seriously, even when the snow falls! No matter the weather, you can rent fat bikes from Tantrum and explore the trails, or opt for a guided tour with Wandering Wheels, trusted local bike experts.
3. Cross-country Skiing at Mount Macpherson – Mount Macpherson boasts 26 kilometres of meticulously groomed Nordic trails, including 6 km of illuminated trails for nighttime skiing. The club offers rental equipment and an adult daily trail pass costs just $11. Gather your friends (and your furry companion) and venture out for an unforgettable experience!
4. Snowshoe Tours with Revelstoke Snowshoe Company – Perhaps skiing isn’t your cup of tea, but the allure of the backcountry is still there. Look no further than Revelstoke Snowshoe Company, where tours are offered daily and accommodate various fitness and experience levels. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the wilderness as Pete and his guides introduce you to the local flora and fauna along the way.
5. Mt. Begbie Brewing Tours – Revelstoke is home to more than world-class skiing, the local beers are world class too! Explore Mt. Begbie Brewing’s new facility, sample their exceptional beers and discover the secrets behind their award-winning brews.
6. Distillery Tours – Monashee Spirits Craft Distillery uses only local and sustainable ingredients, they offer an array of lively cocktails to sample and they’re home to the largest spirit whisky collection in B.C.!
7. Stargazing with Columbia Stars – See the sky in a whole new way with Columbia Stars’ high-powered telescopes. A unique and family-friendly experience you won’t get anywhere else!
8. Snowmobile Tours with Great Canadian – Looking for an adrenaline rush? Great Canadian Tours offers sled tours that will get your heart pounding. Based at Glacier House Resort, they offer a range of experiences from family-friendly outings to full-throttle adventures!
9. Waterfalls – If you’re a fan of waterfalls, Revelstoke offers plenty to choose from, including several incredible, easily accessible waterfalls near town. Here are a few top recommendations:
- Sutherland Falls – A majestic and forceful 13-metre waterfall plunging into a canyon.
- Moses Falls – Although less frequented, this cascading waterfall is remarkably impressive.
- Begbie Falls – A brief hike leads to a misty, multi-tiered waterfall.
10. Thrift Store Shopping for Retro Ski Gear – The end of the season creeps up quickly- make sure you have your outfit ready for closing day. The Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store has a wealth of retro treasures and rare treats in stock all winter. Find that perfect outfit to confirm your status as the best skier on the mountain!
Find just about everything you need during your visit in inviting downtown Revelstoke. Liam Harrap / Revelstoke Review
Bring only the essentials
In Revelstoke, there’s an extensive list of “things-to-do” but a shorter list of “things-to-bring.” The former can be long, but the latter doesn’t have to be.
Ensuring you’re primed to venture anywhere at anytime, the following items will do the trick just fine!
Whether you’re hitting a night out on the town, shredding the pow or taking a stab at cross country skiing, a good set of long johns is often all you need to retain warmth. Paired with a light jacket, a vest, a beanie and gloves, you’re all set! And don’t forget your flask filled with… tea.
Other essentials for ease of mind:
- Spare clothing, (socks, gloves, underwear)
- Hand warmers
- Water/protein bar(s)
- Wallet
- Cash
- Phone charger/battery pack
- Most importantly, a positive attitude
When it comes to day-to-day fit checks, the town’s style is casual, fun, non-judgemental and practical. You’ll fit right in with a toque, plaid shirt and a pair of boots. As long as it makes you confident and comfortable, you know you’ve made the right choice!
If you forget anything along the way, a trip to Revy’s downtown will sort you out just fine. Don’t forget to drop by the Visitor Information Centre for your Revelstoke swag.
Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!
‘Monstrous’ new exhibit takes Vancouver Aquarium visitors into the Abyss